Objective: To prepare and study the biocompatibility of selectively decellular xenoskin which has the character of the lower antigen, continuous epidermis, and the dermal matrix without any cellular components.
Methods: The porcine skin was treated with glutaraldehyde solution, trypsin, and detergent solution TritonX-100 to prepare the selectively decellular xenoskin. The cytotoxicity was tested according to GB/T16886.5-2003 biological evaluation of medical devices for in vitro cytotoxicity, and the levels of cytotoxicity were evaluated with the United States Pharmacopeia. Subdermal implantation was tested according to GB/T16886.6-1997 biological evaluation of medical devices for local effects after implantation. Seventy-two mature Wistar rats were randomly assigned to groups A, B, and C (n = 24). Three kinds of materials were implanted into subcutaneous of rats back. Selectively decellular xenoskin was transplanted into group A, fresh porcine skin was transplanted into group B, and allogeneic skin was transplanted into group C. The samples were collected to make the observation of gross and histology after 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks.
Results: The cytotoxicity was proved to be first grade by biocompatibility test. The gross and histological observation of subdermal implantation: after implantation, the most severe inflammatory reactions were seen in group B which dispersion was very slow. Inflammatory reactions in groups A and C alleviated gradually. In groups A and C, there was an increased collagen fiber density and angiogenesis at late stage; the transplanted skin was gradually degraded and absorbed. In group B, no obvious degradation and absorption were observed.
Conclusion: Selectively decellular xenoskin, prepared with glutaraldehyde solution, trypsin, and detergent solution, possesses characteristics of integral skin structure and excellent biocompatibility, so it can be used as a new type substitute to repair the burn wound.